Mark Olsen, Ph.D.

ASPH is an enzyme essential for embyrological development, including proliferation and migration. Tumors inappropriately over-express ASPH, resulting in tumor proliferation, invasion and metastasis. Cancers that over-express ASPH include liver, lung, pancreatic, breast, ovarian and brain cancers. ASPH small molecule inhibitors developed in the Olsen Laboratory have a demonstrated ability to suppress tumor proliferation and metastasis in in vitro and in vivo models of numerous cancers. Anti-ASPH antibodies have also been developed for both diagnostic and therapeutic applications. Other research in the Olsen Laboratory involves the rational design and synthesis of closely related enzymes, including FTO, FIH, TET1-3, and PHD1-3.
Antiepileptogenic Agents
Inhibition of 2-oxoglutarate utilizing enzymes
Aspartyl-beta-hydroxylase inhibitors for anticancer treatment